Proceeds from the Meralco-Macau Black Bears game in the East Asia Super League Saturday, Nov. 15, will go to the relief efforts in Cebu, which was ravaged by Typhoon Tino recently.
Chris Newsome and the Meralco Bolts aim to strengthen their East Asia Super League playoff bid when they battle the Macau Black Bears Saturday, Nov. 15.
The match kicks off at 6:00 p.m. at the Cebu Coliseum.
[RELATED STORY: EASL to stage Meralco-Macau charity game in Cebu to support Typhoon Tino relief efforts]
At 1–2 in Group B, Meralco figures in a virtual knockout match for every game.
The Bolts currently sit in third place, with only the top two teams advancing.
They enter the matchup coming off a confidence-boosting 85–76 breakthrough over the Taoyuan Pauian Pilots in Isabela.
They will need to deliver once again, this time without CJ Cansino, who is sidelined due to a sprained ankle.
Meralco will also continue to miss the services of Justin Brownlee, who will not suit up despite being back in Manila Friday, Nov. 14, as he will fulfill his Gilas Pilipinas duties for the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers Window 1.
[RELATED STORY: Justin Brownlee not playing for Meralco in EASL Cebu game]
Still, coach Nenad Vucinic has a dependable core ready to carry the load.
Newsome, Cliff Hodge, Bong Quinto and reinforcement Rondae Hollis-Jefferson remain the team’s primary engine on both ends.
Imports Sina Vahedi and Ismael Romero, both coming off 22-point performances in Isabela, are also expected to play key roles as Meralco hunts win No. 2.
The Black Bears, meanwhile, will be in action for the first time this season, making preparation and defensive adjustments critical for the Bolts.
Saturday’s contest also carries a meaningful purpose: all proceeds will be donated to relief efforts in Cebu, which is still reeling from the devastation brought by Typhoon Tino.
Meralco has already pledged P500,000 to aid affected communities.
[RELATED STORY: Meralco Bolts commit Php 500K for Cebu City for Typhoon Tino recovery]
With stakes high on and off the court, Meralco looks to deliver a win that boosts its playoff aspirations — and supports a city in recovery.
(With reports from Jan Ballesteros)
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[Editor’s note: This article was written by a member of One Sports Digital with the help of AI and reviewed by editorial staff for accuracy.]